In 2022, nations reached a consensus to negotiate a legally binding treaty on plastic pollution, with final discussions scheduled for November 2024 in Busan, South Korea.

Experts are currently gathering in Bangkok to discuss financing options and problematic plastics ahead of these crucial negotiations.

Lagos, Nigeria, has been identified as the city with the highest levels of plastic pollution, followed closely by New Delhi, Luanda, Karachi, and Cairo.

Environmental groups are advocating for restrictions on new plastic production, a stance that has gained traction with recent U.S. support for production limits.

Key topics for the treaty discussions include phasing out problematic plastics, implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, and enhancing waste management infrastructure.

Bjorn Beeler from IPEN noted that the global community has been actively working to combat plastic pollution for three years, with final negotiations expected soon.

Thousands of observers from various backgrounds have participated in treaty discussions worldwide, voicing their concerns about the escalating plastic pollution crisis.

In July 2024, the Biden administration released its comprehensive plan to address plastic pollution, focusing on production, design, waste management, and removal.

The treaty aims to tackle the pervasive issue of plastic pollution, which has been found in various environments, including oceans and even human breastmilk.

There is a growing consensus among business leaders that a global, legally binding treaty is essential for effectively addressing plastic pollution.

India stands out as the largest contributor to plastic pollution, generating around 10.2 million tons annually, which is about one-fifth of the global total.

The Biden administration's recent plan includes developing standardized methods for measuring microplastics, which will support regulatory efforts.